Common adoption mistakes you want to avoid

On behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A. posted in family law on Monday, January 9, 2017.

If you are ready to grow your family and have chosen adoption as the method to do so, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to this life-changing event. As you await the arrival of your new daughter or son, it's important that all the rules are followed and all details are addressed. Many adoptive parents make mistakes that can delay the adoption or even put it at risk without realizing what they are doing. The following are adoption mistakes that any potential adoptive family wants to avoid.

1. Averse to age

If you are only looking for a small child under the age of two, your options may be limited when it comes time to adopt. You can broaden your potential adoptive pool and be more likely to find your child faster when you aren't averse to any age.

2. Failing to do your homework

Adoption is not a simple process, and there are many variables that affect the outcome. You should always know before you start how long the process can take, what the potential costs are, what paperwork you will be expected to file or produce, and what the health history of the birth mother and your potential child contains. If you don't do your homework and find at the last minute that you lack the funds to complete the adoption, your family may be left heartbroken.

3. Not "selling" your family

When you are creating an adoption profile, you'll include biographical details about your family. These pieces of information are important, but remember that this is your chance to really market your family and show a birth mother or father exactly why you are the best choice to place his or her child. Directly address the needs of the birth parents with information they really want to hear about how you plan to raise the child and meet her or his needs over time.

4. Gender specificity

If you only want a girl or only want a boy, the adoption process can be slowed down significantly. Typically, there are more boys available for adoption than girls, and requesting a girl can mean you don't have the opportunity to adopt at all. Keep your mind open to adopting both genders.

5. Not getting professional help

This is a big, overwhelming change for your family, but ultimately one that may lead to happiness and joy for a lifetime. As you navigate the complicated waters of adoption, you might benefit from having the advice of a professional to help you make the right choices. An attorney may be able to answer any questions you have and lead you in the right direction.

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